AWhen their parents are wealthy, educated, and politically liberal, Merika’s parents find themselves in a moral dilemma when it comes to choosing a school for their children. Should the children attend a public school, where they would have to share their education and classroom with children from less educated families and face the limitations of public budgets? Or should they opt for a private elite school instead? These schools are typically well-equipped, offering small class sizes, individual support, inspiring study trips both domestically and internationally, and networking opportunities with influential families.
The Stanford professors Joseph Bankman and Barbara Fried made the decision to enroll their son Sam Bankman-Fried at Crystal Springs Uplands School, but they were torn, as noted by a journalist from the „New Yorker“ who had close access to the family. Crystal Springs Uplands is one of the most expensive private schools in America (with a tuition fee of $60,000 this year). The son of Steve Jobs attended this school, and Silicon Valley millionaires send their children there. Sam was a special child who clearly preferred math puzzles and sports statistics over children’s birthday parties. They didn’t want the chance of the boy being destined for greatness to be hindered by a mediocre public school.